Lotus Plumule
- Chinese
- 莲子心
- Pinyin
- Lian Zi Xin
- Latin
- Plumula Nelumbinis
Known in TCM as Lian Zi Xin (莲子心), this bitter, cold herb enters the Heart, Lung, and Kidney. Traditionally, it clears Heart Fire and calms the Spirit; treats irritability, restlessness, mouth and tongue sores, and mild insomnia from Heart Fire, most often applied for insomnia, mouth sores, and anxiety. Modern research has identified Neferine among its active constituents.
Part used: Plumule
Also Known As
Latin: Plumula Nelumbinis | Pinyin: Lian Zi Xin | Chinese: 莲子心
TCM Properties
- Taste
- bitter
- Temperature
- cold
- Channels
- Heart, Lung, Kidney
Traditional Use
Primary Actions
- Clears Heart Fire and calms the Spirit; treats irritability, restlessness, mouth and tongue sores, and mild insomnia from Heart Fire
- Stops bleeding and secures Essence; used for hematemesis and spermatorrhea associated with Heart Fire
Secondary Actions
- Commonly brewed as a simple tea for summer irritability and thirst
Classical References
- Distinguished in later materia medica from Lian Zi (Lotus Seed) as the bitter, cold embryo used specifically for Heart Fire, in contrast to the sweet, neutral seed used for tonification
Modern Research
Active Compounds
- Neferine
- Liensinine
- Isoliensinine (bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids)
Studied Effects
- Neferine shows anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiarrhythmic, and antiplatelet activity in preclinical models
- Liensinine and isoliensinine studied for neuroprotective and antiarrhythmic effects
- Cardiovascular research is the most developed research area for these alkaloids
PubMed References
Safety & Interactions
Contraindications
- Spleen and Stomach Cold-Deficiency
Cautions
- Very bitter and cold; use only in small doses (1.5-3g) and avoid prolonged use
- Neferine and related alkaloids have documented cardiotoxic potential at high concentrations in vitro; avoid combining with antiarrhythmic medications without practitioner supervision
Drug Interactions
- Theoretical interaction with antiarrhythmic or cardiac medications
Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lotus Plumule used for?
Lotus Plumule is traditionally used to Clears Heart Fire and calms the Spirit; treats irritability, restlessness, mouth and tongue sores, and mild insomnia from Heart Fire, Stops bleeding and secures Essence; used for hematemesis and spermatorrhea associated with Heart Fire. Research has investigated its effects on: Neferine shows anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiarrhythmic, and antiplatelet activity in preclinical models; Liensinine and isoliensinine studied for neuroprotective and antiarrhythmic effects.
What are other names for Lotus Plumule?
Lotus Plumule is also known as Nelumbo nucifera embryo, Lotus Seed Heart, Nelumbinis. In TCM: 莲子心 (Lian Zi Xin); Plumula Nelumbinis.
Is Lotus Plumule safe during pregnancy?
The safety of Lotus Plumule during pregnancy has not been established. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
What are the contraindications for Lotus Plumule?
Lotus Plumule should not be used in: Spleen and Stomach Cold-Deficiency. Consult a qualified practitioner before use.
Does Lotus Plumule interact with any medications?
Lotus Plumule may interact with: Theoretical interaction with antiarrhythmic or cardiac medications. Always inform your healthcare provider of any herbal supplements you are taking.